Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein)
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On the first remarks of the Cathaoirleach, we all saw the programme "Horses: Making a Killing" and we do not have to go over old coals because it was shocking and everyone knows that. Mr. Gleeson remarked that there needs to be a root and branch overhaul. When will that take place, is it going to place or what internally has changed from last week or two weeks ago compared to now? That is one question.

I will have to disagree on the analysis of the fishing industry, as I come from a fishing county, Wexford, which has a great maritime history. Mr. Gleeson cannot make a statement that says that. The huge number of Spanish and French boats there are not catching fresh air. We even have the Chinese here and they are not catching fresh air. We have the super trawlers coming in that are not catching fresh air. To say there is a depletion of fish is not quite right. Maybe we could get examples of fish species being talked about because the Dutch are building a new fleet. They are not building a new fleet for nothing.

I am involved with fishermen down there and as the witnesses know, it is a very lucrative business. It is one of the superfoods that is going to be really important for our food industry and food security in future. It is one of the industries we should really be looking after. In his opening statement, the Secretary General stated that the agriculture, food and marine sectors are crucial to the fabric of rural and coastal Ireland but would he say they are equally important and are treated equally when it comes to the State in terms of representatives giving supports and subsidies?